Creating one of the most unusual science classrooms in the UK

Solardome Industries has recently installed a PRO dome at Watford Grammar School for Girls, in Hertfordshire, UK. The PRO dome has been fully kitted out as a multi-research facility on the roof of the school, used primarily to extend the learning of A-Level Science students. All Solardome’s geodesic domes are precision-engineered using aluminium struts, extruded by Sapa Profiles UK.

Sapa and Solardome Industries have been working together to create maintenance-free aluminium frames since 2002. Every year, Sapa supplies around three tonnes of extruded aluminium to Solardome. The benefits of aluminium; being lightweight, durable, high strength are just some of the qualities that make aluminium the ideal solution for creating the domes.

Watford Grammar School wanted to create an extension to its existing facilities. They decided a geodesic dome would “bring science alive” and provide an inspirational place to nurture the next generation of female scientists. Solardome was chosen to supply the dome, as it is the only dome manufacturer that could design a habitable, temperature-controlled space with added ‘wow’ factor. Fitted with two doorways and an electric source air pump, the dome can be heated and cooled, making it usable all year round.

The state of the art SOLARDOME PRO is a new architectural system that offers an innovative alternative to traditional buildings.  The PRO system enables Solardome to produce bespoke domes up to 25 metres in diameter, quickly and cost-effectively. SOLARDOME PROs offer the possibility of attractive free-standing classrooms, studios, leisure facilities, theatres, sports halls, homes or light industrial units.

The domes are energy efficient, maximising solar gain all year round. Thanks to the use of aluminium, the structures are lightweight and aerodynamic, making them ideal for sitting on rooftops and exposed sites. The structures are high strength; they last for decades and can withstand extreme weather conditions, with low maintenance and no chance of rust. The SOLARDOME PRO is 7.2m diameter and 3.6m in height, creating an area of over 40m².

Education is an important sector that is expanding rapidly for Solardome. Domes in educational establishments provide a unique, hands-on learning environment for all subjects. The SOLARDOME PRO at Watford Grammar School offers a fully fitted science classroom, creating laboratory workstations for 12 students.

 

www.sapaprofiles.com/uk

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